Program Overview

Payne Theological Seminary’s academic program leading to the Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree is designed to prepare men and women for competent and faithful service to the Church and to the world in a way that meets the needs of a rapidly changing world. The Master of Divinity degree is a 90-credit-hour program that can be completed in three to five years of full-time or part-time residential or online study. In addition to the core curriculum, students are guided through a one-year supervised experiential learning experience in a church setting in the first term, and a non-church setting in the second term.

The Master of Divinitydegreeprovides professional training for Christian ministry and further graduate studies. While most Payne students go into the pastoral ministry, the seminary trains persons for work as chaplains, educators, pastoral counselors, community development practitioners, and scholars. Core curriculum areas of study include: African American Studies, Biblical Studies, Historical Studies, Theological Studies, and Practical Ministry.

Accreditation

Payne Theological Seminary was granted full accreditation in 1995 from The Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada, the accrediting agency for seminaries. The seminary is also certified by the Ohio Board of Regents. This makes Payne one of only four accredited historically-Black seminaries. This status qualifies Payne to participate in the Federal Student Aid programs of the United States Department of Education, the Veterans' Administration and other sources of assistance.

Payne Theological Seminary is accredited by the Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada, and the following degree programs are approved:

MDiv

The Commission contact information is: The Commission on Accrediting of the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada 10 Summit Park Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15275 USA